A simple guide to the new DIN standard EN 13204: 2016

The former standard EN 13204 was replaced by a new version on 1 December 2016. The first cutter certified according to the new standard, the S 312 made the top cutting class I at its first attempt.

What the new DIN standard EN 13204: 2016 says

The new system for evaluating cutting performance is the most important change:

The profiles for cutting were kept the same, but three additional classes have been added (I, J and K) above the formerly highest class, "H".

The cutting performance for each type of material is presented in a standardized "Product Performance Data Sheet" with individual results.

Die neue Tabelle am Beispiel des Schneidgeräts S 312

How to read the chart

As before, classification according to the standard is based on the lowest result ("I" for the S 312) and is found on the far left:

The actual performance of the S 312 is shown in the block on the right-hand side:

The details are found on the bottom of the chart and are color coded.

What are the advantages of the new chart?

Unlike standardized classification or the designation of theoretical cutting force in kN, the individualized results now make it easier to compare cutters. Performance in a practical setting is what counts: for instance cutter A with the result "4J" scores higher than cutter B with the result "4H" when it comes to cutting square pipe – a task that defines its actual usefulness.

S 312 – The first cutter certified according to EN 13204: 2016

Always maximum power – guaranteed with the new S 312. The first cutter certified according to EN 13204: 2016 made the top cutting class I. The metrics confirm the superiority of the S 312 for its practical use: the blade opening radius was increased to 160 mm compared to the previous model S 311, the theoretical cutting force is now 680 kN and the cutting performance for round material was raised to 35 mm. Making rescue missions worldwide easier.